Did you know that every week, 300 people are diagnosed with bowel cancer, and sadly, 100 of them will lose their lives? Bowel cancer is the second deadliest cancer in Australia as of 2023, and the World Health Organization (WHO) reports it as the third most common cancer globally. Alarmingly, this trend is expected to rise, with the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW) estimating that annual cancer cases in the country may surpass 200,000 by 2033.
Lifestyle and age are factors, but a major reason for the increasing number of bowel cancer cases is our diet—something we have the power to change and improve. That’s why raising awareness about this disease and understanding how it develops can help us and future generations adopt healthier habits to prevent bowel cancer and related illnesses.
June 19th is Red Apple Day in Australia, which is dedicated to raising awareness for bowel cancer screening. And so, as we observe this important day, let’s explore in this blog everything you need to know about bowel cancer and how to prevent it through a healthier diet.
Understanding Bowel Cancer
Bowel cancer, also known as colon cancer, refers to the growth of cancerous cells in the large intestine called the colon. These abnormal cell growths usually occur in our large intestine’s innermost lining—or mucosa. Our mucosa normally consists of cells that produce and release mucus and other fluids. But when the cells inside mutate, it can become a colon polyp.
This is what, in some cases, can become cancerous, and when it is left undetected or untreated, the cancer can spread throughout your colon and eventually throughout your nearby organs.
What Are the Symptoms?
Colon cancer can be a silent disease as it often goes unnoticed unless it grows worse. Based on existing statistics from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), colon cancer typically affects men, people assigned male at birth, and those aged 50 and above. However, statistics from recent years have shown that more people aged 20 to 49 are being diagnosed with colon cancer.
The American Cancer Society finds that in the US alone, the diagnosis of people under 55 years old has doubled from 11% in 1995 to 20% in 2019. And a majority of the younger population diagnosed with colon cancer usually are unaware that what they’re experiencing is already related to having the disease.
It shows that early detection is challenging because the symptoms can easily be mistaken for everyday changes in the body. Some people may not realize they have colon cancer until it’s too late because they experience no symptoms at all. So, to help you stay vigilant, here are some signs to watch for:
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- Blood in your stool
- Abdominal pain
- Bloating
- Changes in bowel habits
- Unexplained weight loss
- Vomiting
- Fatigue
By being aware of these symptoms, you can take action early and consult with your doctor if you notice any concerning changes. Early detection can significantly improve treatment outcomes.
The Importance of Early Detection
On the brighter side, though early detection of colon cancer can be challenging, it is not impossible.
In fact, to encourage timely diagnosis, the Australian Government has recently launched the National Bowel Cancer Screening Program. If colon cancer is found early, over 90% of cases can be successfully treated. So, if you’re an Australian aged 45 to 74, you are eligible for this program, where you can take a free colon cancer screening at-home test every two years.
Aside from this free program, you can also take advantage of other screening options, such as the following:
Visual-Based Screening
Colonoscopy
A colonoscopy is a procedure in which a doctor uses a flexible tube with a camera to examine the inside of the colon and rectum for abnormalities or diseases. It’s typically recommended starting at age 45 or younger if there’s a family history of colorectal cancer, and it should be repeated every 10 years if no risk factors or abnormalities are found.
Sigmoidoscopy
Like a colonoscopy, a sigmoidoscopy also uses a flexible tube with a camera, but this time, it only examines the rectum and sigmoid colon. It’s usually recommended starting at age 50 or younger if there’s a family history of colon cancer, and it should be repeated every 5 years.
At-Home Screening
Fecal Immunochemical Test (FIT)
The FIT is a noninvasive test that detects hidden blood in the stool, an early sign of cancer or large polyps. If no risk factors or abnormalities are detected, it should be done annually.
High Sensitivity Fecal Occult Blood Test (FOBT)
The FOBT is another noninvasive test that finds hidden blood in the stool. This can indicate cancer or large polyps and is usually recommended to be done annually.
DNA Stool Test
A DNA Stool Test, meanwhile, analyzes stool samples for genetic mutations and blood associated with cancer or large polyps. It should be done every three years or as advised by your doctor.
Regardless of the method, the main goal is to detect the abnormal growth of cancer cells as early as possible before the disease worsens. Regular bowel screening and early detection significantly increase the chances of surviving the disease.
According to Cancer Australia, individuals diagnosed with colorectal cancer from 2015-2019 had a 71% higher chance of surviving for five years compared to those not diagnosed early. Additionally, increasing screening rates from 40% to 60% also prevents over 84,000 deaths by 2040.
Factors That Increase Your Risk
Understanding the risk factors for colon cancer is essential for taking proactive steps towards prevention. While there’s still ongoing research to fully grasp why some individuals develop cancerous colon polyps, several factors contribute to an increased risk.
Some factors are beyond our control, such as age and genetics. However, there are also controllable aspects that play a significant role, including dietary and lifestyle choices. These choices include smoking, lack of physical activity, heavy alcohol consumption, and being overweight or obese.
Taking Action Against Colon Cancer
By addressing these controllable factors, you can reduce your risk of developing colon cancer and prioritise your overall health and well-being. Here are a few steps you can take to start focusing on contributing aspects that you can still change:
Maintain a Healthy Weight
Maintaining a healthy weight is crucial in reducing the risk of colon cancer. Incorporate regular exercise into your routine, aiming for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity activity each week. A balanced diet rich in vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and lean proteins can also help manage your weight. Be mindful of portion sizes to avoid overeating, and consider seeking advice from a nutritionist if necessary.
Limit Alcohol Consumption
Limiting alcohol intake is another important step. Aim to consume no more than one drink per day for women and two drinks per day for men. Choosing lower-alcohol beverages and being aware of serving sizes can help manage your intake. Reducing alcohol consumption not only lowers the risk of colon cancer but also benefits overall health.
Limit Intake of Red and Processed Meat
Reducing the intake of red and processed meats can significantly decrease your colon cancer risk. As a matter of fact, the International Journal of Epidemiology stated that “people who ate red or processed meat four or more times a week had a 20% higher risk of colorectal cancer than those who indulged in them twice a week or less.”
So, substitute these meats with healthier protein sources like poultry, fish, beans, and legumes. Incorporate meat-free days into your weekly meal plan and choose healthier cooking methods such as baking, steaming, or grilling instead of frying or charbroiling.
Increase Fibre Intake
Increasing your fibre intake is essential for digestive health and reducing colon cancer risk. Focus on eating more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes. If you struggle to get enough fibre from your diet, consider fibre supplements after consulting with your doctor. Drinking plenty of water is also important to help fibre move through your digestive system efficiently.
Avoid Smoking
Avoiding smoking is one of the most effective ways to lower your risk of many cancers, including colon cancer. Seek support through quit-smoking programs, hotlines, or support groups. Nicotine replacement therapies such as patches, gums, or lozenges can also be helpful. Consult with a healthcare provider for medications that can assist in quitting smoking and improve your overall health.
Take Dairy or Calcium Supplements
Including dairy products or calcium supplements in your diet can help reduce the risk of colon cancer. Opt for low-fat or fat-free dairy products and incorporate calcium-rich foods like leafy green vegetables, nuts, and fortified foods. If dietary intake is insufficient, consider taking calcium supplements, but be sure to discuss the appropriate dosage with your doctor.
Talk to Your GP About Taking Aspirin
Talking to your general practitioner about taking aspirin is advisable, as it has been shown to lower the risk of colon cancer in some individuals. Your doctor can help you weigh the benefits and risks based on your medical history and personal risk factors. If aspirin is recommended, regular follow-up appointments will be necessary to monitor its effects and ensure it remains a suitable preventive measure for you.
There’s Something We Can Do
Colon cancer is a serious illness, and unfortunately, lives are lost to it every day. Yet, despite this difficult reality, there is still hope. We all have the power to prevent or mitigate the impact of this disease on our bodies. As I often emphasize, being mindful of our diet and lifestyle choices can significantly influence our health outcomes.
It’s important to remember that the journey to a healthier life begins with taking proactive steps in our daily choices. Whether you’re cooking at home or dining out, opt for foods that nourish your body, such as fibre-rich meals. Additionally, don’t forget to prioritise regular testing or screenings for bowel cancer and related conditions as a precautionary measure.
As the saying goes, prevention is indeed better than cure, and there’s no better time to start implementing these preventive measures than today. Let’s commit to proactive health management and embrace a future filled with health and happiness. Here’s to making positive choices for a vibrant life ahead.
